DAA's initiative: Haven for Syrian refugees amid insecurity

The military escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, which began a week ago, has driven tens of thousands of Syrians, who either work in Lebanon or had fled there during the onset of the Syrian crisis, back to their homeland. The recent escalation has claimed the lives of hundreds.

Mohammad Aref, a Syrian from occupied Afrin who sought refuge in Lebanon 11 years ago at the outbreak of the Syrian crisis, found in the Autonomous Administration’s initiative for the return of Syrian refugees “a safe haven” to return peacefully to his country.

Like other Syrian refugees who contacted ANHA agency to inquire about the details of returning through the Autonomous Administration's initiative, Aref explained that he wants to return via this initiative due to security concerns. He also pointed out that the border crossings between Lebanon and the Damascus government are prone to Israeli airstrikes.

On September 24, the Democratic Autonomous Administration’s representation in Lebanon formed a committee to follow up on the affairs of Syrian refugees from the North and East Syria region who wish to return.

Yesterday, the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria announced the formation of a crisis cell dedicated to those returning from Lebanon. This cell is tasked with receiving and facilitating the arrival of Syrians to the region and providing shelter centers for those from outside the region.

Aref described the situation in Lebanon as "extremely difficult," noting that life in the capital, Beirut—where he rents a house in the "Bir Hassan" neighborhood—has "almost completely come to a halt."

He mentioned that his home sustained several damages during the assassination of Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, as the bombardment was close to his residence.

He also pointed out that the Southern Suburbs are now deserted, with very few people visible on the streets.

Aref noted that the ongoing escalation and bombardment have activated smuggling networks, which have exploited the situation in Lebanon by imposing exorbitant fees for smuggling people to safer areas.

Many Syrian refugees are resorting to risky and illegal routes to avoid crossing the Syrian-Lebanese border, fearing arrest by Damascus forces upon their return, especially those who have evaded compulsory military service, according to Aref.

Aref's story is one of hundreds being lived by Syrian refugees in Lebanon amid the recent escalation. Many fled one war only to face another, and returning to the country via the Lebanese-Syrian border alone presents another burden.

Today, Abdul Salam Ahmed, the representative of the Autonomous Administration for North and East Syria in Lebanon, stated to ANHA agency that the number of people wishing to leave Lebanon and head to the NE Syria region is increasing, and the representation is securing transportation for them.

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ANHA